Unmasking Domestic Violence

Through The Shelter’s Healing Arts Program, survivors are using yoga, breath work, creative writing, art therapy, meditation, drumming circles and more, to heal from the past, live fully in the present and plan for a life free from violence.

As part of October’s Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Healing Arts participants created masks and were invited to share their personal stories reflected in their artwork. Here are a few of the beautiful works created.

More of the masks will be on display at The Purple Party – Masquerade, set for 6:30 p.m., Friday, Oct. 14, at Paradise Wine, 8965 Tamiami Trail North in Naples. Click here for tickets and more information.

img_4272I am Red

I am Red
Color of anger
Color of strength
Today – I am half of each
Anger at how one treated me
Anger that the court system abuses me still

But look at my other half of Red
Strength
I am strong
I will endure
My power belongs to Me
I am Red

Cathy – October 2016

 

 

Immokalee Rural Outreach Advocate

Title: Immokalee Rural Outreach Advocate – print full job description
Reports to: Immokalee Outreach Manager
Status: Full-time, Contract based, Non-exempt
Description: Identify, assess, and appropriately respond to survivors of domestic violence in Immokalee. Provide support, counseling, and advocacy to victims of domestic violence specifically focusing on the needs of the rural and under-served community.

Requirements & Skills:
High school diploma required. Bachelor’s degree in social services preferred.
Bi- lingual required. Proficient in reading, writing and speaking English and Spanish.
Computer savvy, proficient in Microsoft applications
Highly organized.
Public speaking experience needed.
Experience in domestic violence intervention and prevention preferred.
Ability to advocate on behalf of victims
Ability to perform calmly in crisis situations
Training and experience in crisis intervention counseling preferred
Successful completion of Core Competency course
Successful completion of first aid and CPR class
Valid Florida driver’s license

Duties:
*Meet VAWA Rural Underserved Program grant deliverables as detailed in current grant year.
*Developing and nurture community partnerships.
*Assists in the creation and distribution of promotional materials related to the program.
Participates in meetings, statewide and regional trainings, calls and webinars.
*Assists in conducting focus groups, assessments and action plans for the program.
* Participates in community outreach activities
* Attends required trainings
General Duties:
* Assess participant needs
* Assess lethality of participant’s situation
* Assist participant development of safety plan
* Maintain and report statistical measurements as required
* Maintain documentation as required
* Maintain knowledge of community resources and refer/advocate as necessary
* Maintain current knowledge of domestic violence
* Demonstrate an understanding of prevention principles and implement prevention activities
* Other duties and tasks as assigned by Manager

Individual Counseling/Support Group Facilitation:
* Develops and/or applies support group curriculum.
* Provide individual counseling; crisis intervention; emotional support; guidance; information and referral.

Emergency Legal Advocacy/Criminal Justice Support:
* Emergency legal advocacy, criminal justice support; assistance with restraining orders, injunctions, and other protective orders.
* Assistance with petitions such as elder abuse and child abuse.
* Advocacy for victims at any stage of the criminal justice process.
* Post sentencing services and support.

Personal Advocacy, Emergency Financial Assistance, and Follow-Up Contact:
* Personal advocacy and follow-up
* Assistance to secure victims’ rights, remedies, and services from other agencies
* Locates emergency financial assistance; intervene with employers, creditors, and others on behalf of the victim
* Assists in filing for losses covered by public and private insurance programs including workman’s compensation, unemployment benefits, welfare
* Assists with processing requests for emergency financial assistance (cash outlays) for items such as transportation, food, clothing, emergency housing, etc.
* Informs participants of and assists with filing for Victim Compensation claims and related documentation processing.
* Follow-up contact (in person, via telephone, or written) to offer emotional support, provide empathetic listening, and check on victim’s progress.

Crisis Hotline Counseling:
*Provide victims with crisis counseling, guidance, emotional support, information, referrals, etc.

Community Collaborations
*Assists in establishing a Community Coordinated Response Team to include local community agencies in order to integrate prevention and intervention strategies and services through increased communication, cooperation and coordination among participating partners.
**Position is contingent upon the yearly renewal of the grant.

ADA:
Must be physically mobile and able to sit, stand, bend, stoop, and lift 20+ pounds. The Shelter for Abused Women & Children complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and support to the Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing in accordance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. The Shelter is an equal opportunity employer. We adhere to a policy of making employment decisions without regard to race, color, age, sex, religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, or marital status. We assure you that your opportunity for employment with us depends solely upon your knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Transitional Housing Advocate

For more information, email: info@naplesshelter.org
Title: Transitional Housing Advocate
Reports to: Outreach Manager

Status:

 

Full-time, Non-exempt

 

Description:

 

 

Provide support, counseling, and personal advocacy to victims of domestic violence through economic empowerment programming. Assist victims of domestic violence in the Transitional Housing Program (THP) in achieving independent living skills and obtaining permanent housing through support, counseling, advocacy and empowerment based education.

 

 

Requirements &

Skills:

 

 

 

 

*Bachelor’s Degree required, Master’s Degree preferred

*Experience in domestic violence intervention preferred

*Bi-lingual (English/Spanish) required

*Basic computer skills

*Ability to advocate on behalf of victims

*Ability to perform calmly in crisis situations

*Training and experience in crisis intervention counseling preferred

*Successful completion of Core Competency course

*Successful completion of First Aid and CPR class

*Valid Florida driver’s license

 

Duties:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

General Duties:

* Assess victim needs

* Assess lethality of victim’s situation

* Assist client with development of safety plan

*Provide service management

* Maintain and report statistical measurements as required

* Maintain documentation as required

* Maintain knowledge of community resources and refer/advocate as

necessary

* Maintain current knowledge of domestic violence

* Demonstrate an understanding of prevention principles and implement

prevention activities

* Facilitate Allstate Economic Empowerment Classes

* Facilitate Women of Business Classes

* Manage Micro Loan program, distribution and compliance

* Manage IDA program, distribution and compliance

* Other duties and tasks as assigned by Manager

* Conduct regular housing checks

* Assess and conduct interviews with new TH candidates

* Prepare TH residents for exit and transition into their permanent living situation.

* Assist clients in securing permanent housing

* Maintain and report statistical measurements as required

* Maintain documentation as required

* Maintain knowledge of community resources and refer/advocate as necessary

* Maintain current knowledge of domestic violence

 

 

Individual Counseling/Support Group Facilitation:

* Provide individual counseling, crisis intervention, emotional support,

guidance

* Facilitate support groups and group activities

 

Emergency Legal Advocacy/Criminal Justice Support:

* Emergency legal advocacy, assistance with filing of Injunctions for protection

* Assistance with petitions such as elder abuse and child abuse

* Advocacy for victims at any stage of the criminal justice process

* Post sentencing services and support

* Advising victim of and filing for Victims Compensation claims

 

Personal Advocacy,  Follow-Up Contact:

* Assistance to secure victims’ rights, remedies, and other agency services

* Locate emergency financial assistance, intervene with employers, creditors,

and others on behalf of the victim

* Assist in filing for losses covered by public and private insurance programs

including workman’s compensation, unemployment benefits, welfare

* Assist in completing required forms; gathering needed documentation; etc.

* Follow-up contact (in person, via telephone, or written) to offer emotional support, provide empathetic listening, and check on victim’s progress.

 

Crisis Hotline Counseling: 

* Provide victims with crisis counseling, guidance, emotional support, information, referrals, as needed

ADA:

 

Must be physically mobile and able to sit, stand, bend, stoop, and lift 20 pounds. Must be physically mobile and able to sit, stand, bend, stoop, and lift 20 pounds. The Shelter for Abused Women & Children complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and support to the Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing in accordance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.  The Shelter is an equal opportunity employer.  We adhere to a policy of making employment decisions without regard to race, color, age, sex, religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, or marital status.  We assure you that your opportunity for employment with us depends solely upon your knowledge, skills, and abilities.

 

 

Children’s Services Supervisor

Click here for full job description

Title: Children Services Supervisor
Reports to: Outreach Manager

Status:

 

 Full-time, Non-exempt

Description:

 

 

Responsible for supervising the effective operation of the Shelter’s Outreach Children’s Programs and staff, and for providing crisis counseling and service management for adult and child participants.

 

 

Requirements &

Skills:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Duties:

 

 

·         Bachelor’s Degree in Social Services required. Masters preferred.

·         Knowledge of the dynamics and laws pertaining to domestic violence.

·         Two years of experience in the domestic/sexual violence or crisis intervention field preferred.

·         Versatile service management and counseling skills for adults and children.

·         Caring and empathetic demeanor.

·         Excellent empowering communication skills.

·         Ability to coordinate services for program participants and properly document

·         Actions.

·         Ability to work independently with sound judgment.

·         Professional interaction with members of other agencies.

·         Successful completion of Core Competency Course.

·         Successful completion of CPR and First Aid Course.

 

Leadership Skills

·         Models appropriate professional behavior and encourages other staff

members to act in a professional manner.

·         Demonstrates effective interpersonal and communication skills.

·         Encourages active involvement of all staff in decision-making processes.

·         Initiates and facilitates change process.

·         Effectively manages time, projects and multiple priorities.

·         Embraces and emulates the empowerment advocacy philosophy.

·         Operates in concert with the mission, vision, and strategic plan.

 

Program

·         Oversees the outreach children’s services, including support groups and individual advocacy for program participants.

·         Ensures children and youth outreach programs operate in accordance with    established agency philosophies, policies, and funding sources.

·         Assists with interns.

·         Oversees and develops The Shelter’s child and youth prevention programs into the community and in Collier County Public Schools.

·         Speaks as an advocate for youth issues within the community.

·         Assist program participants in obtaining legal, medical, financial, and/or social services.

·         Advocates for program participants with community agencies.

·         Develops and maintain resource options in the community.

·         Fosters an atmosphere of teamwork.

·         Ensures staff follows an empowerment based advocacy model with all survivors.

·         * Ensures FCADV minimum standards are achieved in all areas of operations

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Program Participants

·         Provides crisis counseling service management for children and adults participants.

·         Helps children with problem solving during times of crisis.

·         Coordinate and conduct children’s support groups in conjunction with adult support groups.

·         Assist adult program participants in obtaining legal, medical, and/or social services for their children.

 

Human Resources

·         Assist with recruits, hires, and evaluates staff based on established criteria.

·         Trains, manages, and provides performance feedback for staff.

·         Plans, promotes, and models life-long learning practices.

·         Promote continuous professional development for staff.

 

Reporting

·         Completes reports and statistical information as needed to include performance tracking, grant requirements, donors and certifying agencies.

·         Promotes clear procedures for collecting, documenting, and reporting data.

·         Submits monthly, quarterly, annual and grant reports in a timely manners.

·         Monitors and evaluates the program and uses the data for program improvement and accountability.

·         Operate in accordance with grant and funding guidelines.

·         Manage overall quality assurance process to ensure participant files and documentation is accurate, complete and meets minimum standards.

 

Other

·         Other duties as may be assigned.

 

ADA:

 

Must be physically mobile and able to sit, stand, bend, stoop, and lift 20 pounds. The Shelter for Abused Women & Children complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and support to the Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing in accordance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.  The Shelter is an equal opportunity employer.  We adhere to a policy of making employment decisions without regard to race, color, age, sex, religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, or marital status.  We assure you that your opportunity for employment with us depends solely upon your knowledge, skills, and abilities.

 

 

 

Outreach Manager

Click here to download full job description

Title: Outreach Manager
Reports to: Director of Programs

Status:

 

 Full-time, Exempt

Description:

 

 

Responsible for managing the effective operation of the Shelter’s Outreach programs and staff, and for providing crisis counseling and service management for program participants

 

Requirements &

Skills:

 

 

 

 

·      Master’s degree in Social Services required. LMHC, LCSW, LMFT preferred

·      Two years of experience in the domestic/sexual violence or crisis intervention field preferred

·      Knowledge of the dynamics and laws pertaining to domestic violence

·      Versatile Service management and counseling skills

·      A minimum of two years of Program management experience preferred

·      Ability to coordinate services for program participants and properly document actions

·      Caring and empathetic demeanor

·      Ability to work independently with sound judgment

·      Excellent empowering communication skills

·      Professional interaction with members of other agencies

·      Successful completion of Core Competency Course

·      Successful completion of CPR and First Aid Course

Duties:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Leadership Skills

·         Models appropriate professional behavior and encourages other staff members to act in a professional manner

·         Demonstrates effective interpersonal and communication skills

·         Encourages active involvement of all staff in decision-making processes

·         Initiates and facilitates change process

·         Effectively manages time, projects and multiple priorities

·         Embraces and emulates the empowerment advocacy philosophy

·         Operates in concert with the mission, vision, and strategic plan

 

Program

·         Direct and oversee all outreach program services, including support groups and individual advocacy for program participants

·         Ensure all outreach programs operate in accordance with established agency philosophies, policies, and funding sources

·         Supervise interns providing leadership, direction, and meaningful experiences

·         Expand The Shelter’s outreach into the community to offer a unique mix of

services for the diverse population served

·         Assist program participants in obtaining legal, medical, financial, and/or social services

·         Advocate for program participants with community agencies

·         Develop and maintain resource options in the community

·         Oversee the development of primary prevention programs

·         Manage all operations of the outreach

·         Foster an atmosphere of teamwork

·         Ensures staff follows an empowerment based advocacy model with all survivors.

·         Ensure FCADV minimum standards are achieved in all areas of operations

·         Supervises of Master’s Level student interns

 

Human Resources

·         Recruit, hire, and evaluates staff based on established criteria

·         Train, manage, and provide performance feedback for all outreach staff

·         Plan, promote, and model life-long learning practices

·         Promote continuous professional development for staff

·         Supervise interns from local colleges and universities

·         Supervise staff for licensure

 

Program Participants

·         Ensure Empowerment based advocacy services, resources, and referrals are provided on a continual basis

·         Advocate for participants with community agencies

·         Provide food, clothing, personal items, etc., as needed

 

Reporting

·         Complete reports and statistical information as needed to include

·         performance tracking, grant requirements, donors and certifying agencies

·         Promote clear procedures for collecting, documenting, and reporting data

·         Submit monthly, quarterly, annual and grant reports in a timely manner

·         Monitor and evaluate the program and uses the data for program improvement and accountability

·         Operate in accordance with grant and funding guidelines

·         Manage overall quality assurance process to ensure participant files and documentation is accurate, complete and meets minimum standards

 

Resource Management and Allocation

·         Effectively manage and allocate the budget

·         Develop innovative cost cutting measures

 

Community Collaboration

·         Build relationships with various agencies and institutions to enhance the delivery of services

·         Access and make information available to participants that includes community resources, issues, relevant laws, and regulations

·         Work with community partners to provide a seamless web of support, services and programs for survivors

·         Identify new frontiers for outreach services

 

Other

·         Serve as part of program manager on-call rotation

·         Available 24-hours by cell phone

·         * Other duties as may be assigned

 

 

 

 

ADA:

 

 

Must be physically mobile and able to sit, stand, bend, stoop, and lift 20 pounds.

The Shelter for Abused Women & Children complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and support to the Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing in accordance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.  The Shelter is an equal opportunity employer.  We adhere to a policy of making employment decisions without regard to race, color, age, sex, religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, or marital status.  We assure you that your opportunity for employment with us depends solely upon your knowledge, skills, and abilities.

 

 

Three Shelter team members receive service pins

Congratulations to Carol Drouin, Maylen Garcia and Olesya Jackson, who received service pins, Sept. 14, 2016, during The Shelter’s monthly staff meeting. Carol, who serves as Residential Supervisor, was honored for an amazing 20 years of service to The Shelter. Maylen and Olesya (O.J.) were honored for five years of service. The Shelter is proud to have the service of these talented and dedicated individuals!

NextGen End of Summer Party at Ridgway’s

Thank you to Ridgway Bar & Grill, Charlie McDonald Photography and everyone who turned out to support The Shelter’s NextGen Committee’s End of Summer Party, Friday, Sept. 9, 2016 at Ridgway Bar & Grill in Naples.

The Shelter is newest Blue Zones Project worksite

Click here to read the Naples Daily News story

 

.

NAPLES, Fla. – Sept. 6, 2016 – The Shelter for Abused Women & Children in Naples is taking a page from its own self-care playbook by becoming a Blue Zones Project Approved™ Worksite. The designation allows the 26-year old organization to demonstrate its commitment to community well-being, by helping its own employees and residents live longer, better lives. Blue Zones Project is a community-by-community, well-being improvement initiative designed to make healthy choices easier through permanent changes to environment, policy, and social networks.

“As role models to the community we serve, we want to practice self-care that furthers the well-being of our employees and enhances The Shelter’s ability to promote health among the individuals and families we serve,” said Linda Oberhaus, executive director. “Blue Zones Project has helped us do that by offering evidence-based practices that we could incorporate into our daily work lives.”

The Blue Zones Project designation is a natural fit with The Shelter’s mission to “prevent, protect and prevail” over domestic violence, Oberhaus said.

“The well-being of our community will increase when domestic violence is eradicated,” Oberhaus said. “When our Shelter employees feel good and have increased health and well-being, they are better equipped to provide the life-transforming services needed to assist survivors with increasing their own well-being.”

To become an approved worksite, The Shelter created a Blue Zones Project Committee to work toward increasing the well-being of the staff. After implementing Blue Zones Project practices, The Shelter became a smoke-free campus and many employees began wearing Fitbits to track their daily steps. By using the Fitbits, employees sought to improve their overall health, but in addition they stimulated social connectedness via friendly competitions to see who achieved the most steps each day and by walking together.

Brought to Southwest Florida by NCH Healthcare System, in collaboration with Healthways®, Inc. and Blue Zones®, LLC, Blue Zones Project is a vital part of Southwest Florida’s well-being improvement initiative that encourages changes to the community that lead to healthier options. For more information about Blue Zones Project – Southwest Florida, call 239-624-2312 or visit southwestflorida.bluezonesproject.com.

About Blues Zones Project

Blue Zones Project® is a community-led well-being improvement initiative designed to make healthy choices easier through permanent changes to a city’s environment, policy, and social networks. Established in 2010, Blue Zones Project is inspired by Dan Buettner, a National Geographic Fellow and New York Times best-selling author who identified five regions of the world—or Blue Zones—with the highest concentration of people living to 100 years or older. Blue Zones Project incorporates Buettner’s findings and works with cities to implement policies and programs that will move a community toward optimal health and well-being. Currently, 27 communities in seven states have joined Blue Zones Project, impacting more than 1.7 million Americans. The movement includes three beach cities in California, 15 cities in Iowa, the city of Fort Worth, and communities in Hawaii, Southwest Florida, and Oregon. For more information, visit bluezonesproject.com.

Open Roads program takes Immokalee teens down new paths

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[button url=”https://youtu.be/ItRJ2GFMAxg” style=”normal”]CLICK THIS BUTTON TO VIEW OPEN ROADS VIDEO[/button]

Five young Immokalee men got the opportunity to travel down some new paths thanks to the Open Roads on the Road program, Aug. 9-11, 2016. The 3-5 day program is an abbreviated version of the very successful Open Roads Adventure, designed to empower and develop the future leaders and spokespersons for The Shelter’s Gentle’men Against Domestic Violence (GADV) initiative.

One of the primary goals of Open Roads is to build a cohort of young voices to promote GADV and perhaps, equally as important, help these young boys build self-esteem, self-confidence, public speaking and a sense of self.

“I had the privilege of working side-by-side with these amazing men, who dedicated their time and money to helping these young men understand the purpose of being a Gentle’man” says Bill Villafranco, GADV Chair. “The idea of empowering young men with the understanding of the true virtues of being kind, compassionate, respectful and caring toward, not only women and girls, but to all members of the community is the overarching goal. The boys learned from total strangers what it means to be a Gentle’man. They far succeeded my expectations. They are true ambassadors.”

Each young man received a camera, which empowered him to capture his interest(s), through the lens. Led by Vincent DeLuca and Ethan Downing of Open Roads, and The Shelter’s Raising Gentle’men Advocate Sergio Lopez, the boys created a series of interview questions on the topic, “What are the stereotypes of men?” In addition to conducting and filming interviews, participants learned some basic photography techniques, including how to take pictures, utilize light, focus, determine point of interest, and the two-thirds rule.

“The boys experienced a lot of emotions,” Sergio says of participants’ reactions. “At the beginning, even though they wanted to be part of the program, many were hesitant to learn something new. When they received their cameras, they were so hyped about it. But the most important thing the kids shared is how good it felt having the support and encouragement from Vince, Ethan and Bill. I know they truly enjoyed the experience and, without a doubt, they would do it again.”

As part of the filming, the boys interviewed men and women on Fifth Avenue in Naples. They were tasked with approaching total strangers and asking them for a few minutes of their time to answer some questions. The process required the boys to look people in the eyes, speak with confidence, and professionally handle rejection from those who did not wish to participate.

“It was interesting to hear what people had to say,” said 14-year-old Emanuel. “Men have emotions. A lot of people don’t know that. They might think it’s just pride, but they’re scared to show their emotions because they might get picked on and made fun of. It’s scary (to show your emotions) but you gotta do it sometime or you’re just going to explode.”

After eight hours in the summer heat, they had six interviews. The next step was editing the film, adding text and music. The resulting film debuted, Aug. 11, in front of a packed house in The Shelter’s Community Ed Room. Three of the participants were on hand to speak about the experience, including what they learned and how they learned it. They spoke with confidence and pride. After the viewing, the audience gave the young men a standing ovation.

Summer Santa visits Shelter kids

Santa in July (3)The Shelter held a Christmas in July event for emergency shelter residents on July 29. Shelter volunteer Declan McGarvey dressed up as our “Summer Santa” and donned a Hawaiian style holiday shirt, shorts and flip flops. The festivities included gifts for the children, holiday music, milk and cookies.

From office work to outdoor repair; sorting clothes or assisting customers at The Shelter Options Shoppe, there are so many fun ways to volunteer your time! CLICK HERE For more information!

Back to school in style thanks to free haircuts!

Ritz hairdresser finalThank you to Troy Halbisen for his gift of free back-to-school haircuts for 17 Immokalee youngsters. On July 27, Halbisen, a hairstylist at The Ritz-Carlton, set up shop in The Shelter’s Immokalee Outreach Office and put his “snippers” to good use.

If you have special skills or time that you would like to share with Shelter participants, call The Shelter at 239.775.6842 or CLICK HERE for more information!

Outreach Advocate (Haitian Initiative)

Reports to: Outreach Manager
Status: Full-time, Non-exempt
Description: Engage the Haitian community in a meaningful dialogue and sharing of ideas and experiences that will best serve to bring about coordinated response within the Haitian community. Identify, assess, and appropriately respond to survivors of domestic violence in Haitian communities. Provide support, counseling, and advocacy to victims of domestic violence specifically focusing on the needs of the Haitian community.

Requirements & Skills:

  • Bachelor’s Degree, Masters Degree preferred
  • Experience in domestic violence intervention preferred
  • Bi-lingual (English/Creole) required
  • Proficient computer skills
  • Promote Haitian initiative
  • Ability to advocate on behalf of victims
  • Ability to make community presentations
  • Ability to perform calmly in crisis situations
  • Training and experience in crisis intervention counseling preferred
  • Successful completion of Core Competency course
  • Successful completion of first aid and CPR class
  • Valid Florida driver’s license
  • Professional demeanor

Duties: VOCA Duties

  • 10% Provide empowerment based advocacy for all participants and assess participant needs, assess lethality of participant’s situation, assist participant with adaptation and development of safety plan, establish and facilitate Creole support group
  • 4% Maintain and report statistical measurements as required, maintain documentation as required
  • 10% Increase awareness about domestic violence among Haitian community, conduct domestic violence related educational presentations and train the trainer for Haitian leadership, provide specific outreach to Haitian business owners, establish and maintain round table with agencies regarding the Haitian initiative
  • 6% Maintain knowledge of community resources and refer/advocate as necessary, maintain current knowledge of domestic violence, demonstrate an understanding of prevention principles and implement prevention activities, other duties and tasks as assigned by Manager
  • 10% Crisis Hotline Counseling: Provide victims with crisis counseling, guidance, emotional support, information, referrals, etc.
  • 10% Provide crisis counseling; crisis intervention; emotional support; guidance; information and referral.
  • Emergency Legal Advocacy/Criminal Justice Support:
    10% Emergency legal advocacy, criminal justice support; assistance with restraining orders, injunctions, and other protective orders
    5% Assistance with petitions such as elder abuse and child abuse
    6% Advocacy for victims at any stage of the criminal justice process
    4% Post sentencing services and support.
  • Personal Advocacy and Follow-Up Contact:
    7% Personal advocacy; emergency financial assistance and follow-up, assistance to secure victims’ rights, remedies, and services from other agencies, locate emergency financial assistance; intervene with employers, creditors, and others on behalf of the victim, assist in filing for losses covered by public and private insurance programs including workman’s compensation, unemployment benefits, welfare, accompany victim to the hospital, assist with processing requests for emergency financial assistance (cash outlays) for items such as transportation, food, clothing, emergency housing, etc.
    8% Assist with filing for compensation claims which includes advising victims of the availability of crime victim compensation, assist in completing required forms; gathering needed documentation; etc.
    5% Follow-up contact (in person, via telephone, or written) to offer emotional support, provide empathetic listening, and check on victim’s progress.
    5% Facilitate support groups and group activities.

ADA:
Must be physically mobile and able to sit, stand, bend, stoop, and lift 20+ pounds. The Shelter for Abused Women & Children complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and support to the Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing in accordance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. The Shelter is an equal opportunity employer. We adhere to a policy of making employment decisions without regard to race, color, age, sex, religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, or marital status. We assure you that your opportunity for employment with us depends solely upon your knowledge, skills, and abilities.

NextGen adopts family for Back to School

Project Coordinator Lisa Hulme with collected supplies.

Project Coordinator Lisa Hulme with collected supplies.

Thank you to The Shelter’s NextGen Committee for adopting a family of four through The Shelter’s Give Back, Fill a Pack drive. In addition to abuse, the family struggles with medical issues that make it difficult for the single mother to provide back-to-school clothing and supplies. This assistance will give the kids the necessary tools & confidence to start school.

For more information on NextGen and how you can get involved – go to naplesshelter.org/nextgen-committee

Thank you to outgoing NextGen Committee Chairs

The Shelter would like to extend its gratitude to outgoing NextGen Committee Chairs Dave Anderson and Caroline Ridgway. Thanks to their commitment and leadership, the NextGen Committee has enjoyed a fun and successful run of events and activities to benefit and raise awareness for The Shelter.

The Shelter’s Next Generation Committee is a diverse group of young individuals committed to expanding and deepening the support base of The Shelter for Abused Women & Children by “friend raising” and cultivating a next generation of support to provide increased awareness, sustainability and leadership succession for the organization.

CLICK HERE for more information on the Purple Party.

Want to become a member? Please complete the form below.
For more information or to attend a meeting, contact Tamika Seaton, Senior Development Officer, at 239-775-3862 ext. 217 or email Tamika atTseaton@naplesshelter.org.

 

Give Back – Fill a Pack collects school supplies

Through the month of July, The Shelter for Abused Women & Children will be hosting a back-to-school donation drive for Collier County children touched by domestic violence. There are three ways residents can help support the drive:

  • Adopt a Student and fill his or her back-to-school needs. Tell The Shelter how many students you would like to “adopt” and you will receive a list, the age and gender of your child.
  • Back-to-school essentials list – Look over the essentials list and purchase items to donate or use the list to create a drive of your own at work, school, church, or in your neighborhood.
  • Donate a dollar – Make a donation to the drive while shopping at The Shelter Options Shoppe, 968 2nd Avenue North in Naples. Donations can also be made online at org/giveback

The deadline for donations is Aug. 1, 2016. Donations may be dropped off at Options. Please choose school supplies (ie: backpacks and folders) that feature positive, uplifting graphics. The Shelter cannot accept any items that depict violent images. To view the back-to-school essentials list or make on online donation, click on the buttons below.

[button url=”https://naplesshelter.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/2016-Back-to-school-2-sided.pdf” style=”smalll”]Click Here for List[/button] [button url=”https://weblink.donorperfect.com/giveback” style=”smalll”]Donate Online[/button]

 

WINK News – Shelter assists victims of human trafficking

The Shelter Residential Manager Lise Descoteaux talks with WINK reporter Jennifer Jones about what happens to human trafficking victims after their captors are arrested.

Healthcare Network Health & Smiles Mobile visits The Shelter

Shelter participants received onsite care during a July 1 visit from the Healthcare Network of Southwest Florida’s Health & Smiles Mobile. Thank you to HCN and its wonderful staff for providing much-needed family dental and health services to our emergency shelter and community outreach participants.

Healthcare Network dental mobile best

From left, Michael Munoz, Blanca Pazos and Dr. Mancera

 

NBC-2 News: Human trafficking arrest in Collier County

The Shelter Executive Director Linda Oberhaus was interviewed by NBC-2 News as part of their story on the June 29 arrest of a Tampa man charged with human trafficking in Collier County.

NBC-2.com WBBH News for Fort Myers, Cape Coral & Naples, Florida

Another arrest made in SWFL human trafficking ring 

COLLIER COUNTY – A massive human trafficking ring uncovered homes in Lee and Collier Counties used as brothels.The latest arrest in Operation Human Freedom was made on Wednesday when Collier deputies took Miguel Aguilar of Tampa, charging him with human trafficking.

Another bust in Bonita Springs led to the arrest of Anahi Bengoechea — known as  Christina to the women she forced into sex slavery.

Operation Human Freedom investigated by the Officer of Statewide Prosecution began in 2013. More than 10 people have been arrested with Aguilar being the latest arrest. These men and women are accused of trafficking women to brothels across the state and threatening to hurt their families if they didn’t follow orders.

According to the report, some of those brothels are in Bonita Springs, Immokalee, and Naples.

“There’s definitely a trend for the traffickers to seek out local girls in local communities,” said Linda Oberhaus with the Shelter for Abused Women and Children.

Oberhaus says human trafficking is a growing problem and warns that all parents need to talk to their children about the dangers.

“I just think there needs to be open communication between parents and their children about the realities of human trafficking so we can keep kids in our community safe,” Oberhaus said.

She says parents should be checking their children’s social media accounts to make sure they aren’t chatting with anyone who may put them in danger as the law works to prosecute those who would hurt them.

“In Collier County, we’re seeing more of this, and that’s a testament to the Collier County Sheriff’s Office. They have a human trafficking unit and they’ve done a really good job of identifying cases of human trafficking,” Oberhaus said.

Bonita Springs’ ‘brothel’

One of the brothels in Bonita Springs was near Dortch Avenue and Ragsdale Street. Neighbors told us they’re used to seeing multiple cars — as many as 30 per day — driving down the alleyway and through the gate to the entrance of the home.

Many neighbors we interviewed didn’t want to be on camera or even give us their names but say they remember what the house was like before they arrested Anahi Bengoechea — known as Christina to the women forced to have sex for money.

“She was nice and everything, but it was so awkward that so many cars coming in and going out,” said one anonymous neighbor.

“It surprised me, yeah it did, but I never in a million years thought something like that was going on,” said another neighbor.

The victims of the trafficking ring told law enforcement they would be forced to have sex with up to 60 men each day. Many of the victims were illegal immigrants who thought they were coming to Florida to work as nannies or maids.

Assuage Spa hosts evening of beauty to benefit The Shelter

Thank you to Dr. Stephen Prendiville and Assuage Spa for hosting An Evening of Beauty to benefit The Shelter! The event will run from 5-7 p.m., Wednesday, July 20, at 1201 Piper Blvd., Unit 1. Tickets are $10 and may be purchased at Assuage Spa. For more information, call (239) 333-1450.
assuage publication

Staff attorney

Title: Staff Attorney – CLICK HERE TO PRINT
Reports to: Director of Programs
Status: Full-time, Exempt

Description:

Provide legal support, representation, advice and counsel, to victims of domestic violence. This position involves professional work in performing legal services within the workings of The Shelter. Employees in this classification coordinate services to and assist pro se litigants in the selection and completion of proper forms and procedures for effectively accessing judicial services. Work entails assisting victims in obtaining protective injunctions, communicating victim rights/responsibilities under the law and outlining legal options for achieving desired outcomes. Employees in this category must demonstrate extensive knowledge in regards to the operation of the court system and its various entities. Florida Statutes, rules of civil procedure, judicial orders, policies and departmental guidelines must be strictly adhered to and enforced. Effective communication is a prerequisite for this position. The broad scope of assignments dictates that the employee assigned exhibit initiative, sound judgment and the ability to function independently. This position reports directly to the Director of Programs who evaluates work progress and the quality of results through conferences, review of written reports, and results obtained.

Requirements & Skills:

Juris Doctorate (J.D.)
Registered with the Florida Bar
Graduation for an accredited law school
Considerable experience in professional legal work or any equivalent combination of training and experience
Experience in domestic violence intervention preferred
Bi-lingual (English/Spanish) preferred
Basic computer skills
Ability to advocate on behalf of victims
Ability to perform calmly in crisis situations
Training and experience in crisis intervention counseling preferred
Successful completion of Core Competency course
Successful completion of first aid and CPR class
Valid Florida driver’s license

Duties:

Provide empowerment based advocacy for all participants and assess participant needs, assess lethality of participant’s situation, assist participant with adaptation and development of safety plan

Maintain and report statistical measurements as required, maintain documentation as required, maintain knowledge of community resources and refer/advocate as necessary, maintain current knowledge of domestic violence, demonstrate an understanding of prevention principles and implement prevention activities. Other duties and tasks as assigned by Manager

Major Duties and Responsibilities:
• Will be responsible for providing assistance to self-represented injunction petitioners.
• Advise victims of civil court procedures, availability of injunctive relief and protection.
• Will be responsible for the training of the domestic violence staff in the injunction process and continuous training as may be required.
• Assist and represent participants in injunction for protections, divorce, custody, mediation, post judgement litigation, child support, housing and other limited civil and criminal matters relating to domestic violence.
• Will be responsible for the ongoing communication with domestic violence and family court judges in injunction related issues.
• Will be responsible for lethality and safety plan review.
• Will be responsible for review of injunction and family related forms and maintenance of the forms for legal compliance.
• Will be required to work very closely with the Judiciary.
• Provide working relationships with outside agencies that interact with courts in injunction related issues.
• Confer with judicial staff, Judges, attorneys and Case Managers regarding various legal, social and safety issues.
• Conduct legal research as may be required.
• Will be responsible for accurate and timely preparations of documentation and statistical reports for management use and or to be submitted to federal, state and local agencies.
• Ability to work with individuals involved in litigation and stressful situations.
• Ability to work with individuals from culturally and economically diverse backgrounds.
• Will be required to perform related work as required.

Personal Advocacy and Follow-Up Contact:
Personal advocacy; emergency financial assistance and follow-up, assistance to secure victims’ rights, remedies, and services from other agencies

Follow-up contact (in person, via telephone, or written) to offer emotional support, provide empathetic listening, and check on victim’s progress.
ADA:
Must be physically mobile and able to sit, stand, bend, stoop, and lift 20+ pounds. The Shelter for Abused Women & Children complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and support to the Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing in accordance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. The Shelter is an equal opportunity employer. We adhere to a policy of making employment decisions without regard to race, color, age, sex, religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, or marital status. We assure you that your opportunity for employment with us depends solely upon your knowledge, skills, and abilities.